Badfinger perform at The Platform

Badfinger, who rose to prominence in the 1970s with a string of international hits, will play live at The Platform in Morecambe on Friday August 17.

Originally formed in the mid-60s under the name The Iveys, the band became the first artists to be signed to The Beatles’ brand new Apple Records in 1968.

The band’s big break came when Paul McCartney gave them his composition for the song Come and Get It as part of a soundtrack to the film The Magic Christian, starring Peter Sellers and Ringo Starr.

The Iveys changed their name to Badfinger shortly afterwards and their album Magic Christian Music was released under this name despite all the songs having been recorded while they were The Iveys.

During the 70s, several members of the band played on various albums released as solo projects by The Beatles, including George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass, Ringo Starr’s LP Ringo and John Lennon’s Imagine. The band’s popularity continued into the early 70s with singles such as Day After Day, featuring George Harrison on slide guitar, which reached No.10 in the UK and No.4 in the US.

However, as Apple Records disbanded and the band signed to Warner Brothers, friction between band members started to increase. It was during this time that Bob Jackson of The Fortunes, who now fronts Badfinger, joined the band. Increasing financial insecurity led lead singer Pete Ham to tragically take his own life in 1975, bringing about the separation of the band.

A brief reunion and another album in the late 70s followed until further tragedy struck when another founding member of the band, Tommy Evans, also committed suicide. Today, the current Badfinger line-up is led by Bob Jackson and continues to command critical acclaim, playing all the hits, as well as new material.

The show at The Platform, which is suitable for ages 14+, starts at 7.30pm on Friday, August 17. Tickets £18 from the box office on 01524 582803 or online at www.lancaster.gov.uk/platform.